5 Tips to keep your energy up throughout the day

If there’s one thing we could all use more of throughout the day, it would be energy. Sure, you could choose to reach for that fourth cup of coffee when you feel drowsy in the afternoon, but what if there was a better option for boosting your energy throughout the day?

We’ve compiled a list of our top 5 tips for boosting your energy throughout the day! Keep reading to learn more.

Feeling drowsy in the afternoon is human nature. People naturally experience their energy levels dip because of circadian rhythms.

Circadian rhythms are 24-hour cycles that are part of your body’s internal clock. One of the most important circadian rhythms is known as the ‘sleep-wake cycle’. Different body systems follow different circadian rhythms which are synchronized with what can be known as a ‘master clock’ in the brain. This clock is influenced directly by environmental cues such as light, which is why circadian rhythms correspond with the cycle of night and day.

Circadian rhythms help to ensure your body’s processes are optimized at certain points throughout a 24-hour cycle. Research shows that in humans, there is a major dip in energy between midnight and dawn, which are the hours where most people sleep. The second dip in energy, however, typically occurs between 1:00pm and 4:00pm in the afternoon. This dip in energy can lead to a drop in concentration and alertness.

Unfortunately with the nature of modern work schedules, an afternoon nap isn’t an option for everyone. However, there are many ways to boost your energy naturally to make it through your day without a drowsy-spell!

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR ENERGY UP

Increasing your level of physical activity almost guarantees that you will sleep more soundly. The better you sleep, the more energy you will have throughout the day. Exercising can also lead to an increase in dopamine levels, which can elevate your mood.

Research shows that foods with a low glycemic index may help you avoid the drop in energy that typically occurs after eating a meal full of sugars or refined starches. Some foods with a low glycemic index include high-fibre vegetables, healthy oils, whole grains and nuts. Foods that are high in carbohydrates tend to have the highest glycemic indexes, so if you have an afternoon presentation that requires top notch concentration, it’s best to stay away from that leftover pasta for lunch.

Compression Socks work to stimulate circulation in your legs and feet by helping push fluids and blood out of your legs and back up to your heart. They create a gradient of pressure by having a snug fit around the ankle, with the tightness gradually reducing towards the top of the sock which lands just below the knee. This pressure gradient helps fight fatigue after a long day of work and activity, and creates better venous pressure.

Dr. Segal’s Compression Socks provide energy, comfort, and support all day long, whether you’re sitting at a desk or are on your feet all day.

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If your body is dehydrated and is short on fluids, the first sign of this is fatigue. Research suggests that on an average day, men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 litres) of fluids, and women should drink 11.5 cups (2.7 litres) of fluids.

These amounts depend on many factors including your health and level of daily activity. Always speak to your doctor first before you make any health-related changes.

5. CONTROL YOUR STRESS

Emotions that are stress-induced consume huge amounts of energy. By controlling these emotions you will notice you have more energy at the end of the day. To reduce stress, try speaking to a friend or a therapist. Activities such as yoga and meditation are also very effective tools in managing and reducing stress.